William G. Helis Sr.
William George Helis Sr. | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Greece |
| Died | July 25, 1950 (aged 63) Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Oilman, racehorse owner and breeder, racetrack proprietor |
| Known for | Oil industry business, Thoroughbred horse racing |
William George Helis Sr. (born October 17, 1886 – died July 25, 1950) was a Greek-born immigrant who amassed considerable wealth through his ventures in the oil sector. He also became a prominent Thoroughbred racehorse owner and breeder, as well as a proprietor of racetracks. The Pittsburg Press once referred to him as "one of the remarkable personalities in the American oilfields."
Helis was headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and passed away at Johns Hopkins Hospital located in Baltimore, Maryland. His body was transported back to New Orleans for burial at Metairie Cemetery, where his mausoleum was crafted by the architect and sculptor Albert Weiblen.
In recognition of his contributions, Helis was honored posthumously with induction into the Fair Grounds Racing Hall of Fame in 1991.
His son, William George Helis Jr., took over the management of his father's oil business interests and maintained an active role in Thoroughbred horse racing.